These works will include the removal of the asphalt surface on the bridge deck to enable a detailed inspection of the bridge, followed by the replacement of deteriorated timber beams and reinforcement of the connection to the substructure.
The duration of the closure will be confirmed as part of the detailed inspection and scoping of the required repairs.
Greater Shepparton City Council Director Infrastructure Phil Hoare said “The bridge is approaching the end of its life and Council has commenced initial planning for the ultimate replacement of the bridge. The planning, design and approval process for the replacement of the Watt Road Bridge will be extensive. These repair works are important to ensure that the existing bridge remains safe and trafficable until its replacement.
Mr Hoare said, to ensure the bridge remains operational until its replacement it’s important that users of the bridge comply with the load limit restrictions as overloading places significant stress on the bridge, puts its structural integrity at risk and ultimately reduces its useful life.”
